Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1836 - 1840

Publication Date

:

1837 - 1841

Average_duration

:

11:55

Franz Liszt's 'La serenata et L'orgia (I & II) (after Rossini), S. 422' is a two-part piano transcription of two arias from Gioachino Rossini's opera 'Il Barbiere di Siviglia' (The Barber of Seville). Liszt composed this piece in 1842, and it was premiered in the same year in Paris. The first movement, 'La serenata,' is a transcription of the aria 'Ecco ridente in cielo' from Act I of the opera. The original aria is sung by Count Almaviva, who is serenading Rosina, the woman he loves. Liszt's transcription captures the playful and flirtatious nature of the original aria. The piece begins with a light and delicate melody in the right hand, accompanied by a simple arpeggio in the left hand. As the piece progresses, the melody becomes more complex and virtuosic, with Liszt adding his own flourishes and embellishments to the original melody. The piece ends with a flourish, as if the serenade has come to a close. The second movement, 'L'orgia,' is a transcription of the aria 'Di si felice innesto' from Act II of the opera. The original aria is sung by the character Don Basilio, who is plotting with Rosina's guardian, Dr. Bartolo, to prevent her from marrying Count Almaviva. Liszt's transcription captures the frenzied and chaotic nature of the original aria. The piece begins with a fast and furious melody in the right hand, accompanied by a driving rhythm in the left hand. As the piece progresses, the melody becomes more complex and dissonant, with Liszt adding his own dramatic flourishes to the original melody. The piece ends with a thunderous climax, as if the characters are caught up in a wild and raucous orgy. Overall, Liszt's 'La serenata et L'orgia (I & II) (after Rossini), S. 422' is a virtuosic and playful transcription of two arias from Rossini's 'Il Barbiere di Siviglia.' Liszt's skillful use of the piano captures the essence of the original arias, while also adding his own unique flair and virtuosity.

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